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Discharge Instructions for Ileostomy

During an ileostomy, a surgeon removes the colon (large intestine) and part of the last section of the ileum (small intestine) if they are diseased. The surgeon may disconnect parts of the intestine if they have been injured. Disconnection allows time for injured intestines to heal; then they are reconnected. During the ileostomy, the end of the ileum is brought through the abdominal wall. This makes an opening, called a stoma, for the contents of your intestines and mucus to pass out of the body. The following are general guidelines to follow after your ileostomy. Your doctor and ostomy nurse will go over any information that is specific to your condition.